Mill, James (1773–1836)

Scottish philosopher and political thinker who developed the theory of utilitarianism. He is remembered for his political articles, and for the rigorous education he gave his son John Stuart Mill.

Born near Montrose on the east coast, Mill moved to London 1802. Associated for most of his working life with the East India Company, he wrote a vast History of British India 1817–18. He was one of the founders of University College, London, together with his friend and fellow utilitarian Jeremy Bentham.